N.J. Assembly Republicans highlight tax burden, propose relief measures as filing deadline nears

NEW JERSEY — As New Jersey residents file their income taxes this week, Assembly Republicans are highlighting the state’s overall tax burden and proposing measures they say would provide relief to families.

According to the Assembly GOP, it costs more than $43,000 annually in taxes to live in New Jersey, with property taxes alone accounting for more than 10% of the average household’s income.

Republicans also pointed to rising costs of living, saying expenses have increased significantly in recent years while income growth has not kept pace.

Assembly Republicans said the gap between income and expenses has left many families struggling, and they are advancing several proposals aimed at lowering taxes.

One measure, sponsored by Assembly Republican Leader John DiMaio along with Assemblyman Gerry Scharfenberger and Assemblywoman Dawn Fantasia, would address so-called “bracket creep,” where inflation pushes taxpayers into higher income tax brackets.

Another bill introduced by DiMaio targets what Republicans describe as a “marriage penalty” in the tax code, which they say can result in higher taxes for some married couples compared with single filers.

A third proposal, sponsored by Assemblyman Christopher DePhillips, would allow renters to deduct a portion of their rent as property taxes, which Republicans said could provide additional financial relief.

Republicans said the proposals are intended to help residents keep more of their income amid rising living costs.